Semi-Finals Recap: Blades Edge Citrus Kings in Thrilling Three-Game Series

The Southeast Division Semi-Finals delivered one of the most exciting playoff matchups this season, as the Nashville Broadway Blades narrowly edged the Florida Citrus Kings in a three-game series to punch their ticket to the division finals. The series saw standout performances, clutch moments, and an unforgettable Game 3 finish.

Game 1: Blades Grind Out a Tight 3-2 Win

The series began with an evenly matched opener, as the Nashville Broadway Blades overcame the Florida Citrus Kings in a narrow 3-2 victory. Despite being outshot 22-18, Nashville capitalized on key opportunities, with Jack Tinney (#3) leading the way with a goal and two assists.

The Citrus Kings struck first, with Lewie Schacht (#82) and Chandler Posey (#7) each scoring in the opening period to take a 2-1 lead. However, Nashville's resilience shone through in the second half, as Dylan Grizzell (#25) netted the tying goal before Tinney set up Garrett Parker (#71) for the game-winner.

Key Highlights:

• Jack Tinney: 1 goal, 2 assists, including the game-winner.
• Ryan Defazio (#31): Stopped 15 of 18 shots for Florida in a solid effort.
• Nashville's opportunistic offense proved decisive.

Game 2: Citrus Kings Bounce Back with Dominant 3-0 Shutout

Facing elimination, the Citrus Kings came roaring back in Game 2, delivering a commanding 3-0 shutout performance to force a decisive Game 3. Florida's defense, led by Mark Craven (#22) and Michael Pradella (#23), suffocated Nashville's offense, limiting the Blades to just 10 shots.

Ryan Defazio (#31) was perfect between the pipes for the Citrus Kings, stopping all 10 shots he faced. Offensively, Pradella was the star, scoring two goals, including a second-period tally that sealed the game.

Key Highlights:

• Ryan Defazio: Earned the shutout with a flawless 10-save performance.
• Michael Pradella: Contributed two goals and one assist.
• Florida's defense held Nashville scoreless despite facing elimination pressure.

Game 3: Blades Hold Off Citrus Kings in a Wild 5-4 Thriller

The decisive Game 3 lived up to the series' billing, as the Nashville Broadway Blades edged the Florida Citrus Kings 5-4 in a game filled with momentum swings. Nashville jumped out to an early lead behind Garrett Parker (#71) and Logan Orem (#17), who combined for four of the Blades' five goals.

Florida stormed back in the second half, with Anthony Zaino (#88) scoring twice and Mark Craven (#22) adding a goal and two assists. Despite the late surge, the Kings couldn't overcome Nashville's early dominance.

Nashville’s goaltender Ethan Williams (#32) delivered a standout performance, stopping 15 of 19 shots, while the Blades' offense proved too much for Florida to handle.

Key Highlights:

• Logan Orem: Two goals, including a critical second-half tally to maintain Nashville's lead.
• Garrett Parker: Scored twice and added an assist in an all-around performance.
• Florida's late-game surge fell just short despite outshooting Nashville 25-19.

Series Takeaways

The Nashville Broadway Blades showcased their depth and composure under pressure to prevail in this back-and-forth series. The Citrus Kings put up a valiant fight, relying on strong goaltending and disciplined defensive play, but ultimately couldn’t slow down Nashville’s offensive leaders in Game 3.

For the Blades, key players like Jack Tinney, Garrett Parker, and Logan Orem stepped up when it mattered most, delivering in critical moments to propel Nashville to victory.

What’s Next?

The Nashville Broadway Blades advance to the Southeast Division Finals, where they will face the dominant Raleigh Title Wave Mops. With a trip to the PIHA Semi-Pro Finals on the line, Nashville will need to bring their best to match Raleigh’s potent offense and disciplined defense.

This series demonstrated Nashville’s resilience and ability to win tight games, but they’ll need to find another level to take down the high-powered Mops. Expect an exciting showdown in the Southeast Division Finals!